Author: Cheryl Niamath

I’m finally on Instagram. I don’t know what took me so long–it’s so much fun! Follow me for project updates and sneak peeks, and see where I’m finding my inspiration. Don’t forget to tag your photos with #fetchingknits too!

I’m very happy to present Sophistical. This is a great loose-fitting layering piece that’s mostly super-simple and quick to knit. The front and back are worked flat and seamed at the shoulders and sides. Drop sleeves are picked up and worked in the round until they’re exactly as long as you want. Simple 1×1 ribbing finishes the neckline.

However, there are a few slightly tricky parts that really add a lot of style: a tubular cast-on and bind-off start and finish your ribbing beautifully, three organic-looking welts on the front skew the hemline in an interesting way, a box pleat on the back adds a bit of swing, and short-row shaping provides a better fit at the shoulders.

The instructions include modifications for simplifying the pattern if you think you might not be up to the challenge (but don’t be afraid to give it a shot–what’s the worst that could happen? You can just unravel and try again . . .)

Spring is a great time to learn to knit! You can practice on a scarf or two, maybe make some mitts or a hat, and by the time the cooler weather rolls around again, you’ll be ready to make your first sweater! Seriously, my second project ever was a sweater. I learned to knit because I love sweaters, and didn’t want to spend any more time on flat things. It wasn’t the greatest sweater, but I wore it proudly.

Are you a beginning knitter? Once you know how to knit and purl, here are some patterns you might like to try:

Ready for a challenge? How about a sweater? This one only takes a few hours. Mr. Darcy is very straightforward (exactly what you need in a Regency-era hero). Or try this drawstring-waisted skirt for a versatile addition to your wardrobe.

Well, this took a lot longer than I thought it would. Probably because I stopped to make a load of tiny sweaters and alpaca cowls for our pop-up sale last month. Anyway, it’s finally done and I think it turned out pretty well. I’m especially happy with the tubular bind off on the ribbed edging. Such a great technique–I highly recommend learning how to do it if you don’t already.

Right-side out, you get sleek slip-stitch ribs on a reverse-stockinette stitch background, with exposed seams. Inside-out, you have nice plain stockinette stitch with garter stitch bands at the hemline and sleeve cuffs, and wide-ribbed sleeves.

It’s made from gorgeous Americo Originals Brezo (a wool/silk/linen blend you will love). It also works beautifully in MadelineTosh Tosh Merino Light.